Interning at the Capitol - how helpful for an Australian?

[DINOSAURSEATYOU]

<p>Hi guys. Long time reader, first time poster, blah blah blah.</p>

<p>As we all know, there are myriad different variables when it comes down to law school applications, and although some variables are “more equal than others”, it’s near-impossible to set one as a definitive standard of entry. That said, I have a very particular question about a very particular variable.</p>

<p>First, some background. I’m a Master of International Politics student at the University of Melbourne in Australia, with a very patchy academic background (started University just as I turned 17, studied film and didn’t take it seriously enough… I’m now 26 and care a helluva lot more) - although, at least, my grades are pretty good over the course of this Masters (the effective equivalent, so far, of a 4.0 except, due to some stupidity on my part - I didn’t drop a subject “correctly” - I have a complete fail in one subject… I don’t even know how that will affect my GPA). Anyway, I want to apply to law school once I complete this degree at the end of this year - specifically I want to do my JD in the States.</p>

<p>As you may or may not be aware, the US Capitol runs an internship programme through which Australians (approx. fifteen each year) can undertake a two-month internship under a congressperson through January and February of each year. I applied in 2008 (for '09) and was told that I missed by a whisker. I’m quite confident about my prospects for 2011.</p>

<p>So the question is: How would a letter of recommendation (assuming, first, that I get the internship, and second, that I enamour myself with my congressperson) from someone like, for instance, Jerrold Nadler, be viewed as in regards to my application to a T14 law school, all other variables aside?</p>

<p>Clearly, there are no quantifiable answers and I’m not looking for one - simply, in your opinion, would these be significantly better than recommendations from professors who know/have known me well? <em>Really</em> significant? Much less significant than I’m thinking? Etc. I’m sure you get the picture. Any info or just your thoughts would certainly be appreciated.</p>

<p>A PDF on the programme (from last year - though it’s basically the same again), can be viewed here: <a href=“http://www.ssps.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/129209/Washington_Internship_2010_primer.pdf[/url]”>Home — School of Social and Political Sciences | Faculty of Arts;

<p>P.S. This is posted elsewhere too. Don’t hold it against me.</p>

[stacy]

<p>All other variables aside, it will make very little difference. Most 26-year-olds applying will have done something between university and law school that will make them a more interesting candidate or a better lawyer (or at least that they can spin that way!). Interning for a member of Congress for a few months is not significantly more interesting or prestigious than other things many law school applicants do. And law schools know that a letter from a congressperson doesn’t guarantee that the congressperson knew the applicant well–or at all.</p>

<p>It sounds like your university experience was somewhat mediocre (law schools do not give a lot of weight to grades in masters’ degree programs, since they are perceived to be very inflated, though the fact that you have a masters will be a small plus factor). Therefore, your chances of admission at various schools will depend largely on your LSAT score. The grading system at your university will also be important; since law schools will be less familiar with Australian universities, they will look at how your performance compared to that of your classmates.</p>

[jonri]

<p>I don’t know how much participation in such a program will help you. However, a LOR from a politician will not be as important as LORS from profs. So, the experience itself may help, but I doubt that a “for he’s a jolly good fellow” type rec from Nadler would be as important as strong LORs from your profs. </p>

<p>LSAC states: </p>

<p>

Letters of Recommendation</p>

<p>The most effective letters of recommendation are those from professors who have known you well enough to write with candor, detail, and objectivity about your academic and personal achievements and potential. Work supervisors also can write in support of your application.

</p>

<p>The ranking system for law schools is based in part on selectivity, which in turn is based in part on the undergraduate gpa’s for those admitted. For ranking purposes, the gpa’s used are those calculated by the LSDAS–and those ONLY include the grades you earned as an undergraduate. So, while the master’s will help a smidge, your undergrad record is FAR more important. </p>

<p>I’d suggest you take a look at [LSAC.org</a> Homepage](<a href=“http://www.lsac.org%5DLSAC.org”>http://www.lsac.org). to get some general info about applying for US law schools. <a href=“http://www.lsac.org/Applying/lsdas-jdcas-educated-outside.asp[/url]”>http://www.lsac.org/Applying/lsdas-jdcas-educated-outside.asp&lt;/a&gt; is of special interest. Be prepared to pay $150,000+.</p>

[DINOSAURSEATYOU]

<p>Thanks for the advice guys.</p>

<p>I must admit that I’m surprised that it’s not rated more highly, but I suppose the key point is there are hundreds of representatives, each with their own little crew of interns annually, and ultimately that adds up to a lot of interns! It’s definitely looked upon a little better here in Australia; it’s a pity I don’t want to stick around here.</p>

<p>Anyway I’ve basically decided that if I can take the opportunity with only a minimal cost to myself (my university, apparently, regularly covers the majority of costs for this internship, which is obviously a big help), then I will. If it’s going to cost me thousands upon thousands of dollars, though, well, so be it; I’ll stay home and enjoy the summer!</p>

<p>Thanks again all.</p>